To the editor:
Coming from a huge city over 1,200 miles away, I can say with confidence, Tryon has a great reputation for being an exceptional artistic community with a state of the art equestrian center.
We love walking down the streets of Tryon looking in all the little stores. Unfortunately, since moving here, we have noticed more and more vacancies in town.
As a matter of fact, we only walk down the street so far because we get to a certain point and know there will not be much open further down the road. I have heard from almost all the locals I’ve spoken with, “You just can’t afford the high rent.” I suppose that may be true.
Considering the economy, cheap imports that have caused the close of many companies, and so many people out of work, luxury items are far down on the average person’s shopping list.
People aren’t buying as much these days, so I can see how it is difficult for small businesses to stay afloat and make enough to cover expenses, let alone make a profit.
In my opinion, John Calure’s suggestion that Tryon invite artists to display their works on the sidewalks, like in Paris, would help put the town back in business. Just like at all these farmers markets, people love to come and see what’s out there.
You might think it would hurt the existing stores, but on the contrary, if you have lots of people on the streets they will be eating at the restaurants and visiting the indoor stores as well.
I can just imagine the streets booming and alive with artists creating right out on the sidewalks and people shopping everywhere.  “Tryon, Little Paris,” might even make a nice painting someday.
– Aine McGarity, Tryon